Money worries stop 25% from taking sick leave

A quarter (25%) of respondents go into work when unwell because of money worries, according to research by National Accident Helpline.

Its survey of 1,000 UK residents found that 19% of respondents cite pressure from their boss as the reason why they do not take time off from work when ill, while 13% say pressure from colleagues is a key factor.

The research also found:

89% of respondents go into the workplace when they are unwell.

More than half (53%) of respondents have not taken any sick days in the last six months.

13% of respondents have been threatened with disciplinary measures as a result of taking sick leave.

18% cite stress as the reason for sickness absence, and more than a third (38%) rate their average stress level as six or more out of ten.

39% of respondents cope with stress by talking to colleagues, 18% turn to food and drink, and 17% exercise to help reduce stress levels.

Beth Powell, marketing director at National Accident Helpline, said: “It’s dismaying to discover that nine out of ten people are going to work when they’re feeling unwell.

“We know that working when ill or injured can have serious implications for recovery. This is why we recommend making a full recovery before returning to work.”